Discovering CX Transformation

Interview Naiara Cantabrana (Randstad) | Human Centric CEO Series | EPS#38

Zanna van der Aa Season 1 Episode 38

What does it take to make a business thrive for the long term? Hint: It’s not just about profit. In this heart-to-heart conversation, Naiara and Zanna discuss how human-centric leadership can be a game changer. Naiara, who has spent two decades at Randstad, reflects on the lessons she’s learned about aligning business goals with the well-being of employees and customers.

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 For timestamps see below.

We dive into topics like psychological safety, compassionate leadership, and why culture really does eat strategy for breakfast. Naiara reveals the practical steps leaders can take to foster a culture where employees feel safe, valued, and motivated. From balancing short-term pressures with long-term human-centric goals to real-life stories of compassionate decision-making, this conversation is packed with insights and actionable advice that every leader needs to hear.

Recorded in Barcelona in November 2024.

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(00:17) Introductions and podcast origin story
(01:29) A shared philosophy on CX and EX
(02:40) Naya’s journey: from organizational psychology to leadership
(05:08) Transitioning from business to HR
(05:59) Passion for leadership and culture
(06:52) Human-centricity: why it matters to companies
(08:31) Human-centric decision-making explained
(10:07) Risks of ignoring human-centricity
(11:25) Measuring human-centricity in organizations
(15:03) Balancing short-term gains and long-term values
(16:14) Human-centricity in tough decisions
(17:11) Leadership shaping organizational culture
(19:09) Designing the ultimate leadership development program
(22:55) Inspiring leaders through experience
(27:52) The power of employee feedback
(31:47) Human-centricity for different leadership levels
(34:40) HR’s role in supporting human-centric transformation
(37:34) Naya’s personal legacy
(39:55) Importance of psychological safety
(41:12) The marshmallow experiment and human connection
(43:48) Enhancing psychological safety as a leader
(45:56) Final reflections and closing remarks